The Phoenix Suns are considering two finalists for their head coach position: Johnnie Bryant and Jordan Ott, both assistants with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The confirmation comes from a source familiar with the situation disclosed to the Associated Press under a condition of anonymity, as the Suns have yet to officially announce the news. This information was initially reported by ESPN.

The Suns are in search of their fourth head coach in as many years following the dismissal of Mike Budenholzer, after a challenging 36-46 season that saw no playoff appearance.

Bryant, aged 39, brings over a decade of NBA experience, having previously served as an assistant with the Utah Jazz and the New York Knicks before becoming associate head coach with the Cavaliers in 2024. He played college basketball at Utah.

Meanwhile, Ott, who is 40 years old, has held coaching positions with the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Cavaliers. Notably, he gained experience as a video coordinator at Michigan State under Tom Izzo, during which the Suns’ owner Mat Ishbia was a walk-on player from 1999 to 2003.

One of the challenges facing the incoming coach will be the potential absence of star player Kevin Durant, who was the subject of trade discussions involving the Golden State Warriors. Durant publicly declined a mid-season move, stating that it was not suitable for his current situation or the team dynamics.